Will the Amarnath Yatri Count Exceed 3 Lakh Today?
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Synopsis
As the Amarnath Yatra unfolds, over three lakh pilgrims are expected to partake, bolstered by extensive security arrangements in light of past incidents. What measures are being taken to ensure the safety of these devotees?
Key Takeaways
- Over three lakh pilgrims expected.
- Security is a top priority with 8,000 special forces deployed.
- The Yatra runs from July 3 to August 9.
- Two routes available: Pahalgam and Baltal.
- Helicopter services unavailable due to security.
Srinagar, July 20 (NationPress) More than three lakh devotees are anticipated to partake in the ongoing Amarnath Yatra over the course of 18 days, following the departure of another batch of 4,388 pilgrims from Jammu to Kashmir on Sunday. The pilgrimage is taking place under extraordinary security.
To date, over 2.75 lakh pilgrims have paid their respects at the shrine.
As 4,388 pilgrims arrive in Kashmir from Jammu's Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas, over four times that amount are arriving daily and registering on-site, either at transit camps or the two base camps. The total count for Sunday is expected to surpass three lakh.
The entire Yatra route from Jammu to the base camps of Baltal and Pahalgam, along with the treks from both locations to the cave shrine, is under constant surveillance by the army, J&K Police, BSF, CRPF, SSB, CISF, and others, with over 8,000 special forces deployed in addition to 180 companies of CAPFs already assigned to Yatra duties.
Fully armed personnel from various CAPF formations are stationed every five meters along the Yatra route, creating an atmosphere of safety that has encouraged more pilgrims to participate in this year’s pilgrimage to the Himalayan cave shrine.
Extensive multi-tier security arrangements have been made for this year’s Amarnath Yatra, especially following the tragic incident on April 22, when Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 civilians based on their faith in the Baisaran meadow of Pahalgam.
An official stated, “Today, an additional batch of 4,388 yatris departed Bhagwati Nagar Yatri Niwas in two escorted convoys for the Valley. The first convoy, consisting of 64 vehicles carrying 1,573 yatris, left at 3:30 a.m. for Baltal base camp, while the second convoy, comprising 115 vehicles with 2,815 yatris, departed at 4 a.m. for Nunwan (Pahalgam) base camp.”
The Bhumi Pujan of ‘Chhari Mubarak’ (Lord Shiva’s Holy Mace) was conducted at Pahalgam on July 10. A delegation of seers led by the custodian of the Chhari Mubarak, Mahant Swami Deependra Giri, transported the Chhari Mubarak from its location at the Dashnami Akhara Building in Srinagar to Pahalgam.
In Pahalgam, the Chhari Mubarak was taken to the Gauri Shankar temple for the Bhumi Pujan before being returned to its place at the Dashnami Akhara building.
The final journey towards the cave shrine will commence from Dashnami Akhara temple in Srinagar on August 4, aiming to arrive at the holy site on August 9, which marks the official end of the Yatra.
This year, the Yatra commenced on July 3 and will conclude after 38 days on August 9, aligning with Shravan Purnima and Raksha Bandhan.
Yatris approach the holy cave shrine, located at an elevation of 3888 metres in the Kashmir Himalayas, via the traditional Pahalgam route or the shorter Baltal route.
Those selecting the Pahalgam route traverse through Chandanwari, Sheshnag, and Panchtarni, covering a distance of 46 km on foot, which takes approximately four days. Conversely, those opting for the shorter Baltal route trek 14 km to reach the cave shrine and return to the base camp the same day after their darshan.
Due to security concerns, no helicopter services are available to Yatris this year.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the unwavering dedication of the pilgrims and the comprehensive measures taken by authorities to ensure their safety during the Amarnath Yatra. Our commitment is to provide accurate, timely coverage that honors the significance of this revered pilgrimage.
NationPress
20/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Amarnath Yatra?
The Amarnath Yatra is an annual pilgrimage to the Amarnath Cave in the Himalayas, where devotees pay homage to Lord Shiva.
How many pilgrims are expected this year?
This year, over three lakh pilgrims are anticipated to participate in the Yatra.
What security measures are in place?
Extensive security arrangements include the deployment of over 8,000 special forces and constant surveillance along the Yatra route.
What routes can pilgrims take to the shrine?
Pilgrims can choose between the traditional Pahalgam route and the shorter Baltal route to reach the cave shrine.
What are the dates for the Yatra this year?
The Yatra began on July 3 and will conclude on August 9.
